Prime Minister Mark Carney and Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre are set to deliver messages promoting unity in Alberta, just prior to the province’s upcoming vote on whether to initiate a binding referendum on separation.
Carney is slated to participate in a rally for the “Forever Canadian” group alongside former Alberta deputy premier Thomas Lukaszuk on Thursday. Additionally, he is expected to attend a similar gathering in Edmonton, his hometown, on Friday ahead of the pivotal vote on Monday.
Scheduled for October 19, the referendum comes after years of discontent in the West and a feeling of detachment from Ottawa, leading separatists to take action following a decision by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith to lower the threshold required to trigger a public referendum.
The ballot features 10 questions covering topics like immigration and constitutional matters, as well as a crucial inquiry on whether Alberta should remain part of Canada or proceed with a binding referendum on independence.
Over the recent Thanksgiving weekend, Carney directed his message towards Alberta’s imminent referendum, emphasizing the importance of preserving the nation and highlighting federally supported initiatives, such as the proposed new pipeline to the West Coast.
“You can’t establish significant developments on unstable foundations,” he remarked.
In a bid to bolster national unity, the government has launched a new video campaign since October 6, utilizing iconic Canadian scenes — ranging from outdoor hockey to majestic mountains to a hospital gurney — while the national anthem plays in the background to advocate for a “stronger Canada through unity.” This campaign, airing on television and online in advance of Monday’s vote, is estimated to cost around $250,000, per the Privy Council Office.
Poilievre is set to join forces with Smith at the Canada Strong and Free Network conference in Calgary on Friday, where he is expected to address the audience. The Conservative leader, hailing from Alberta as well, recently rebuffed tech mogul Elon Musk’s suggestions for Quebec, Alberta, and Saskatchewan to secede from Canada, asserting that “Canadians determine their own fate.”
Ahead of the closely monitored referendum on Monday, numerous Albertans have already participated in advanced voting, showcasing significant early engagement in the process.